Drug Crimes Attorney in Philadelphia

In Pennsylvania, many drug crimes are committed in retail locations with few residential neighborhoods. While true, these crimes can occur anywhere in the state at any time.

Being charged with a drug crime can be a scary situation. Not only do you have to face the potential of severe consequences, but a conviction can impact every aspect of your life.

If you are facing drug crimes, whether misdemeanor possession or felony charges, we recommend calling our law firm to discuss your rights and options. Consulting with A. Charles Peruto about your charges helps you better understand the situation, the law, and the best option for defending your case.

We understand your freedom, livelihood, family, and reputation are on the line and believe you deserve experienced, aggressive representation. Contact The Law offices of A Charles Peruto Jr. to schedule a free and confidential case review. Call us today at 215-735-1010

Understanding Philadelphia, PA Drug Crime Charges

Navigating drug possession charges can be challenging. This is particularly true when dealing with a small amount of controlled substance or drug paraphernalia. In these situations, you will likely face misdemeanor charges.

The possession, distribution, or manufacturing of a controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver it is usually a felony charge. In some situations, you may face federal charges, too.

With over 44 years experience, A. Charles Peruto will help you understand your charges and potential penalties. We can provide advice about your options to have the charges reduced or dismissed, entering your plea, and decide whether or not take your case to trial.

Types of Drug Crimes and Charges

As mentioned, there are several drug charges you can face. We can help with all these situations and others.

Drug Possession

Pennsylvania law defines drug possession as the unlawful possession of a controlled substance^[1].

The prosecutor must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the drug to convict you of this crime. Sometimes, this charge is called “K&I” or “simple possession.”

Drug possession charges can be misdemeanors or felonies. This is determined by the amount of drugs involved—the penalties for this charge range from probation to prison time.

First-offense drug possession charges carry up to one year in jail and/or fines of up to $100,000. Subsequent convictions will usually carry more severe penalties.

Drug Trafficking

Another drug crime is drug trafficking. If you face drug trafficking charges, a conviction carries several years in prison and significant fines. Hiring the Law offices of A. Charles Peruto, Jr. is an invaluable asset in this situation.

Securing a drug trafficking conviction requires the prosecutor to prove you knowingly and intentionally sold or transported a controlled substance. Penalties for this drug crime depend on the amount of drugs involved.

Drug Distribution

Also called “possession with intent to deliver” or PWID, drug distribution charges are serious. In Pennsylvania, this is considered a felony charge, which, if convicted, comes with a mandatory minimum prison sentence of five years. However, this is the minimum, and depending on the specifics of your case, you may face more jail time.

The prosecution must prove you grew, received, purchased, or manufactured an illegal drug intending to deliver it to another person. Intent is the key in this situation. Attorney A. Charles Peruto will work to prove that you did not have this intention.

Manufacturing

In PA, drug manufacturing is the unlawful production of a controlled substance. Drug manufacturing convictions require the prosecutor to show you knowingly and intentionally manufactured an illegal drug.

You may face these charges in several different situations, including:

• Running a drug lab,
• Conspiring with other people to manufacture drugs (even if you are not an active participant in the process) or
• Growing products to use in drug manufacturing

This is not a comprehensive list. You may face drug manufacturing charges under other circumstances.

Criminal Use of Communications Facility

Did you know using a phone in relation to illegal drugs can result in drug crime charges? If you use a cell phone to schedule or arrange a drug deal, you will face charges for Criminal Use of a Communications Facility^[2].

Possession of a Small Amount of Marijuana

Possessing any amount of drug is against the law, including small amounts of marijuana. However, Pennsylvania has begun to show more leniency toward marijuana possession in recent years.

If you have 30 grams or less of marijuana for personal use, the law imposes a lighter penalty than the traditional possession charges. This is treated as a misdemeanor and comes with up to $500 in fines, 30 days in jail, or both.

Potential Penalties for Drug Crimes  

Drugs are separated into schedules^[3]. These schedules are determined based on acceptable medical uses and the potential for drug abuse. The potential penalties depend on the details of your case.

The prosecuting attorneys will consider several factors when deciding what type of charges to file in a drug crime case. This includes things like:

• Schedule of the drug
• If you are charged with intent to distribute or simple possession
• Quantity in your possession
• Prior criminal convictions

Other factors may be considered, too.

Attorney A. Charles Peruto Can Help with the Charges You Face

With over 44 years of experience, A. Charles Peruto Jr has the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully represent you if charged with a drug crime in Pennsylvania.

Do not wait to seek legal representation if you are facing charges for a drug crime. Contact the Law Offices of A. Charles Peruto Jr. to schedule a free and confidential case review. Call us today at 215-735-1010

• Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Criminal Use of a Communications Facility
• United States Drug Enforcement Administration – Drugs are separated into schedules